If you have set your heart on owning an affectionate, friendly, and giant-sized cat, you might be comparing the Ragamuffin vs. Maine Coon cat breeds to determine which breed suits you best.
Relative to Ragamuffins, Maine Coons are visually taller and larger, with adults weighing up to 25lbs, unlike Ragamuffins, which are more cobby and weigh up to 20 lbs. Maine Coons also have superb hunting capabilities and can comfortably live indoors or outdoors as opposed to Ragamuffins suited to indoor living. They also have a ruff around the neck, which is absent in Ragamuffins.
This can be tricky since both breeds are large cats and share many similarities when it comes to family-friendly personalities. There are a few key differences to take into consideration though, as my article will show.
Whilst both Ragamuffins and Maine Coons make great family pets with their winning personalities, understanding more about their similarities and differences can help you make an informed decision.
This informative post will give you an in-depth insight into the similarities and differences between the Ragamuffin vs. Maine Coon.
Ragamuffin Vs Maine Coon
Maine Coons and Ragamuffin cats are both well-established and popular cat breeds.
Maine Coons are pedigree cats, while ragamuffin cats are an offshoot of the popular Ragdoll breed. Some people say that Ragamuffin cats originated from street cats.
All in all, reputable breeders will provide you with pedigree paperwork when buying either of these popular cat breeds (source 1).
Both of these breeds have the following attributes, which makes them excellent family pets:
- Gentle
- Affectionate
- Relaxed
- Calm Demeanor
However, considering that many animal lovers confuse the two breeds for each other, discussing the breeds in detail could help first-time owners pick the breed that suits them best.
Maine Coons are arguably the largest domesticated cat breed and are popular for being gentle giants. They are muscular with a rectangular-shaped body, thick legs, broad chest, and bushy, raccoon-like tail.
Many people like Maine Coon cats because of their luscious, long, shaggy fur that gives them a wild look. They come in an overwhelming multitude of patterns and colors.
Here is a list of the 75 Maine Coon colorings you can pick from.
Maine Coon kittens have blue eyes, but the eyes will gradually change as pigmentation settles in their iris.
Adult Maine Coons can easily be identified with their slightly oblique eyes with green, copper, or gold pigments. They also have a ruff reminiscent of the lion’s mane around their neck.
In comparison, Ragamuffins are considerably large cats known for their sweet natures because of their walnut-shaped eyes. They are lap cats, so they love to be held and cuddled. Many people love them because of their friendly personalities and strong desire to bond with their humans.
As for shape, Ragamuffins are muscular with a broad chest and stocky legs – they are more cobby than Maine Coons – which gives them a less slender look.
While many people confuse the Ragamuffin for a Ragdoll, it is not uncommon for animal lovers to easily mistake a Ragamuffin for Maine Coon, or vice versa.
If you are trying to differentiate the breeds, you could easily tell the difference between a Maine Coon and Ragamuffin by looking at their physical attributes.
Their key differences stem from their:
- Skeletal Structure
- Eye Color
- Shape
- Physical Appearance
- Fur Length
Origins
Just as important as understanding how Maine Coons differ physically from Ragamuffin cats, so is understanding their origin.
As for Maine Coon cats, despite their ever-increasing popularity and the great love they get from their humans, their origin is cloaked in a bit of mystery.
To this day, the truth behind how Maine Coon cats came to appear in Maine, United States, remains steeped in mystery.
The Maine Coons mysterious roots do not hold their popularity back.
While there are many legends surrounding the origin of Maine Coons, the myth that holds water is the claim that Maine Coons were brought into America via ships, where they were used to keep the ship mouse population at bay.
Far from these folklore myths, Maine Coons started rising into popularity in the 1950s.
If you wish to learn more facts and folklore myths around the origins of the fabulous Maine Coon cat, read my article ‘Where Do Maine Coon Cats Originate‘.
On the other hand, the Ragamuffin cats are an offshoot of the Ragdoll cats, which originated in California in the 1960s. So, how did they come into existence?
Originally, the breeding of Ragdolls was strictly controlled by the breed’s founder, Ann Baker, who later established her own registry, the International Ragdoll Cat Association (IRCA), eschewing all traditional breeding associations.
Later in the years, a group of breeders wanted to introduce new colors and patterns, while another camp of breeders thought it was important to widen the breed’s gene pool. As a result, the new group created its own breed, the Ragamuffins, by outcrossing Himalayans, Persians, and other long-haired domestic cats.
The Ragamuffin was established as a separate cat breed in 1994. They have friendly personalities and distinctive thick, rabbit-like fur (sources 1,2).
Ragdoll Cat Vs Maine Coon Size
There is little to no difference between the Ragdoll and Ragamuffin cat breeds, despite them being separate breeds.
In this regard, the difference between Ragamuffin vs. Maine Coon is more or less the same as between Ragdoll vs. Maine Coon.
Therefore, it makes perfect sense to compare the Ragdoll Cat vs. Maine Coon size.
1. Weight
If we compare the Maine Coon vs. Ragdoll weight, it is immediately clear that Maine Coons tend to be slightly heavier:
- Male Maine Coons weigh between 15 and 25 lbs
- Females Maine Coons weigh between 8 and 12 lbs
In comparison:
- Male Ragdolls weigh anywhere between 15 and 20 lbs
- Female Ragdolls weigh between 8 and 15 lbs on average
2. Height
In terms of height, Maine Coon cats tend to be taller, ranging from 8 to 16 inches tall, while Ragdoll cats are around 9 to 11 inches tall.
3. Length
As for length, Maine Coons typically range between 19 and 40 inches, compared to Ragdolls ranging between 17 and 21 inches long.
4. Features
Both the Ragdoll and Maine Coons have noticeably large features to match their large proportions, and all pedigrees cats will appear proportional with no more prominent features (source 1).
Maine Coon Vs Ragamuffin Build and Shape
Everything about the Ragamuffin and Maine Coon cat gives a feeling of substance.
First off, they are all large cats with rectangular-shaped, muscled bodies and broad chests. Their body parts are also in proportion.
Here is how they compare:
1. Muzzle / Chin
Maine Coons have a square-like, large muzzle reminiscent of that of a lion.
In comparison, Ragamuffin cats have a broad round head with a short muzzle having puffy whisker pads.
2. Neck
Both the Maine Coon and Ragamuffin cat breeds have short, heavy, and strong necks with voluptuous ruffs around them.
However, there is one notable difference: Maine Coon ruffs have slightly longer fur than that in Ragamuffins.
3. Head Shape
In terms of head shape, both the Ragamuffins and Maine Coon cats have wedge-shaped heads with pointed ears and round eyes.
Maine Coons tend to have high cheekbones relative to Ragdoll cats which have chubby cheeks.
4. Nose
A purebred Maine Coon has a medium-long, gently-curving nose, whereas Ragamuffin cats have a short nose.
5. Ears
Just like Maine Coons have large, triangular, pointed, and well-tufted ears, Ragamuffin cats have small, triangular pointed ears furnished with tufts of fur. The ears are in proportion to the rest of their bodies.
6. Tail
Relative to Maine Coons with long, bushy, raccoon-like tails, Ragamuffin cats have long, fluffy tails.
There’s more to a Maine Coon cat’s tail than you might think, click here to see why.
7. Legs And Paws
Maine Coon cats have noticeably larger paws than Ragamuffins.
However, first-time owners should beware that most felines in the Ragamuffin family have white paws and stocky legs.
Maine Coons have strong, thick legs.
Maine Coon Vs Ragamuffin Growth Rate
Despite being large cat breeds, both the Ragamuffins and Maine Coons are known to grow very slowly.
Both cat breeds take up to 4 years to reach full size, but Maine Coons may take longer. This means you might have a relatively small cat even when it is over a year old.
Notably, their slow growth rate doesn’t mean they will appear smaller.
These breeds, especially the Maine Coon, remain visually larger than other breeds throughout their lifetime.
Maine Coon Vs Ragamuffin Fur
Maine Coon cats are well known for their luscious, long fur that is usually uneven across their bodies and gives them a wild look.
Purebred Maine Coons will have uneven two-layered coats with the coats draping longer on their stomach and britches (behind the legs), but shorter over the shoulders.
An interesting characteristic of the Maine Coon’s fur is that it is semi-water-resistant, meaning they are well dressed for Winter.
The semi-water-resistant fur not only enables Maine Coon cats to withstand harsh, frigid climates but also to swim effortlessly through the water. Indeed, cats of this breed are said to be obsessed with water.
If you don’t believe me, take a look at the surprising reason behind why Maine Coons are obsessed with water!
Unlike many other cat breeds with long fur, the Maine Coon’s fur is silky and doesn’t mat easily (if brushed regularly). Their considerably longer fur around their necks also sets them apart from the Ragamuffin as it makes them look like little lions.
On the other side, Ragamuffin cats have medium-long, silky fur. Typically, the fur is rabbit-soft and relatively light, which gives them a decadent, blown-out look and feel.
Relative to Maine Coon’s fur, the Ragamuffins fur seems remarkably resistant to matting and tangling, so you won’t have to brush your feline daily (sources 1).
Maine Coon Vs Ragamuffin Coloring
You can tell the difference between Ragamuffin and Maine Coons by looking at the color of their coat.
To start with, Ragamuffin kittens are born white and develop color patterns as they mature. As such, their coat colors and patterns can vary greatly, including solid, tabby, tortoiseshell, piebald, bi-, and tri-colors.
That said, you can find a Ragamuffin cat that is:
- White
- Black/Ebony
- Blue/Gray
- Red/Orange
- Cinnamon
- Fawn
- Lilac
- Lavender/Silver
- Chocolate/Brown/Sable
Bi-color Ragamuffins usually have an inverted V on their forehead, white stomachs, and white legs, whereas mitted Ragamuffins have points with white feet and chin.
In comparison, Maine Coons can appear in nearly every color and pattern combination imaginable.
They come in a wide variety of patterns, including:
- Solid
- Tabbies
- Bi-Colors
- Parti-Color
- Shaded
- Calico
- Tortoiseshell
- Smoke
The most popular colorings are blue, red, creams, solid white, and black. All in all, tabby Maine Coons are the most commonly available (sources 1,2).
Have you ever seen the truly mesmerizing blue Maine Coon cat? Click here to read more about it.
Ragamuffin Vs Maine Coon Personality
Both the Ragamuffin and Maine Coon cat breeds are known to have winning personalities.
They are described as:
- Intelligent
- Affectionate
- Friendly
- Gentle
Both cat breeds are affectionate with a sweet and gentle temperament, highly sociable, and cohabitate peacefully.
They are ideal companions and loyal to their humans. You will also find that they enjoy playing with their owners. However, Maine Coons tend to be more playful than Ragamuffins.
As for hunting skills, Maine Coons have excellent hunting capabilities, while Ragamuffins, just like their cousin Ragdolls, are lazy; therefore, not considered good hunters.
Unlike Ragamuffins, Maine Coons also like to have a space that they feel as though it is their own.
Are Ragamuffins And Maine Coons Family Friendly?
Maine Coons and Ragamuffin are extremely friendly, but Maine Coon tends to have more outgoing personalities.
With their laidback, calm nature, both Maine Coons and Ragamuffins are suitable for families.
Comparatively, Maine Coons are naturally more confident and outgoing. As such, they will approach visitors and bond with them.
On the other hand, Ragamuffins like sitting in the laps of their owner, sleeping nearby, or just being in their human’s presence (source 1,2).
Are Ragamuffins More Intelligent Than Maine Coons?
Ragamuffin and Maine Coons are both known for being incredibly intelligent.
In addition, they have a good reputation for being trainable and will easily learn tricks, particularly when trained at a young age.
Are Maine Coons More Vocal Than Ragamuffins?
When comparing Ragamuffins vs. Maine Coons vocality, we can see that Ragamuffins are considered quiet as they only talk when necessary, whereas Maine coons are considered very vocal.
The Maine Coon will almost never meow, but instead, happily chatter to their human companions through chirps and trill sounds all day long.
Ragamuffin Vs Maine Coon Health Problems
The Ragamuffin and Maine Coon are generally healthy breeds that can live for a long time. However, they tend to have common hereditary health problems, which can be a serious concern.
Both of these cat breeds can be predisposed to:
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): This is a common heart disease in cats that can shorten the cat’s lifespan.
- Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): This is a hereditary condition known to cause renal failure.
Ragamuffins are also susceptible to:
- Upper Respiratory Tract Disorder
- Cystitis
- Infectious Diseases
By comparison, Maine Coons can also suffer from:
Make sure you are aware of the common symptoms and signs to watch out for so that you can identify these particular health problems in your Maine Coon early.
Ragamuffin Vs Maine Coon Exercise Requirements
Another notable difference between Maine Coons and Ragamuffins is how energetic they are.
While both breeds are playful, the Maine Coon is known for being very energetic. They need enough physical exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
These are my favorite Maine Coon cats toys that help keep our large Maine Coon entertained.
Generally, Maine coons need 20-30 minutes of exercise daily. In this regard, Maine Coon owners need to set time to exercise their feline and provide plenty of cat toys to keep the cat entertained.
Maine Coons have dog-like dispositions and can be comfortably leashed and walked. They are also great climbers and will enjoy climbing an extra-large cat tree indoors or climbing trees outdoors.
Relative to Maine Coons, Ragamuffins are very lazy and love to be held. They don’t require any specific exercise regimes and would happily spend hours lazing on their owner’s lap (source 1).
Ragamuffin Vs Maine Coon Cost
Given all the inherent qualities and the winning personalities of these two cat breeds, both Ragamuffins and Maine Coons came with massive price tags.
Purebred Maine Coons are on the higher end, with their price ranging from $800 to upwards of $2,000.
Ragamuffins usually cost between $600 and $1,300.
The price of the kitten or cat will depend on several factors, including:
- Age
- The Breeder
- Quality
- Geographical Location
Older cats are significantly cheaper, with Ragamuffin cats older than two to three years old costing anywhere from $25 to $150 (source 1).
Ragamuffin Vs Maine Coon Lifespan
Ragamuffins and Maine Coons are generally healthy cat breeds, but Ragamuffins tend to outlive the Maine Coons.
Maine Coons are a hardy, healthy cat breed with a lifespan of 10 to 15 years.
Ragamuffin Cats are a pretty hearty breed that can live up to 18 years but is estimated to live between 12 and 16 years (sources 1,2).
Caring For A Ragamuffin Vs Maine Coon
There are many aspects to consider as far as caring for your feline is concerned.
1. Food
First off, both Ragamuffins and Maine Coons should be fed with high-quality cat food each day.
Before taking your feline from the breeders, make sure you know the food they were used to eating, which can be handy if you plan to give your cat a different diet.
Maine Coons should be fed with:
- High-Quality Dry Food
- Occasional Wet Food (no more than 2-3 times a week)
On the other hand, the dietary need for Ragamuffins will depend on their age, sex, and activity levels. Talk to your vet to see what they can recommend.
2. Grooming
As for grooming, these two breeds have long fur that, though resistant to matting and tangling, needs to be groomed and bushed at least 2-3 times a week.
Regardless of the breed, you bring home, you may wish to bathe your feline as required, typically once per month.
3. Claws
Although both breeds are affectionate with a gentle temperament, keeping an eye on their claws is also important.
4. Other Features
Remember to check your feline’s ears, eyes, and teeth regularly.
5. Toys
Both Ragamuffins and Maine Coons are playful, so providing your feline with plenty of cat toys is essential.
If you are bringing a Maine Coon home, you will need to buy a cat tree like this and scratching posts, where the feline can satisfy their climbing needs.
Ragamuffin Maine Coon Mix
We all know that well-established cat breeders typically only breed purebred cats, primarily because they have value.
Well, while having a purebred cat is a great experience, if you cannot afford the initial purchase cost and maintenance costs, you will definitely be thinking about Ragamuffin Maine Coon Mix.
Considering that cats from these breeds have the traits listed below, mixing them can potentially give an affectionate cat with admirable personality, dog-like disposition of the Maine Coon, and cuddly disposition of the Ragamuffin:
- Affectionate
- Intelligent
- Highly Sociable
- Great Overall Personalities
Thankfully, there are a few breeders who offer cross-breed cats, where the Ragamuffin Maine Coon Mix price ranges from $1,00 to $1,500. This is because Ragamuffin and Maine Coons are more or less at the same price range.
If you are thinking of getting a Ragamuffin Maine Coon Mix and are on a tight budget, you can connect with feline owners who haven’t had their cats neutered.
Some pet owners also give away their Ragamuffin Maine Coon Mix for free.
However, be careful because these felines might have inherited hereditary health problems.
Maine Coon Ragdoll Mix Personality
The Maine Coon Ragdoll mix is known to have a docile personality.
They seem to combine the personalities of purebred Maine Coons and Ragdolls in that they greet their human companions when they come home and also crave lap cuddles.
However, they don’t present high hyperactivity.
Another great trait of Maine Coon Ragdoll Mix cats is that they are naturally playful. They are safe around kids and adapt to changes pretty quickly.
Overall, Maine Coon Ragdoll Mix cats are calm, gentle, and have ever-loving personalities (source 1).
Maine Coon Ragdoll Mix Breeder
While Maine Coon Ragdoll Mix breeders are rare, it doesn’t mean they do not exist.
If you are planning on getting a Maine Coon Ragdoll Mix, all you need is to do your due diligence and find a reputable breeder.
Most importantly, before buying a Maine Coon Ragdoll mix, make sure the breeder upholds the best practices for raising cats.
Conclusion
Comparing the Ragamuffin vs Maine Coon cat breeds is very handy if you are trying to decide which cat you should bring home.
Hopefully, this guide helps you understand the key similarities and differences between these two large cat breeds so that you can make an informed decision.
Related Questions
Half Ragdoll Half Maine Coon For Sale
Many breeders update their websites when they are expecting a litter. If you want a Maine Coon Ragdoll mix, keep checking on the websites of reputable dealers for updates.
Maine Coon Vs. Birman
Maine Coon is native to Maine, US, while Birman is native to France. Maine Coon and Birman cats tend to have the same personalities, but the Maine Coons are considerably larger relative to Birman.
Are Maine Coon Cats Really That Big?
Maine Coons are the largest domesticated cats in the world. They can rival the size of small dogs.